I was supposed to return in August but I was enjoying my blogging break so much that I decided to break a little longer. Remember, I was only breaking from blogging. During my time off, I started going through all of my research files and documents. I have a lot of ish! That’s understandable considering… Read More: I’m Back…Plus Roller Skate Research Updates »
The more I talk to people, the more I realize that roller skating was truly a community activity. Many churches and other religious institutions used to have roller skating in their basements and community centers and rooms. If you have such a memory, please provide the following information: Name of Church Address City and State… Read More: Did You Roller Skate at a Church or Other Place… »
From what I’ve heard, Rainbo Roller Rink, located at 4812 N. Clark in Chicago, was a popular place to skate. The second level must have been one if its great assets because it is one of the memories people speak of most. If Rainbo was your favorite place to skate? Share your memories now!
In fact, Black people were first allowed to roller skate indoors at the Savoy Ballroom in Chicago’s Bronzeville community on December 8, 1938 thanks to Jimmie Davis, the manager of The Savoy at that time. I don’t have the newspaper articles back this up because the microfilm machines were down at the Vivian Harsh Research… Read More: Black People in Chicago Were Not Always Allowed to Roller… »
Rich City Skate, located at 4648 Sauk Trail in Richton Park, Illinois, is known for its upscale environment, JB skating, and top notch skating floor. Several skaters have attested to them having the best skating floor in the Chicagoland area. Owned and managed by the Alexander family, the rink is a dream come true –… Read More: Rich City Skate: The Upscale Place to Skate »
Markham Roller Rink (Markham) has been a source of fun and entertainment for African Americans for over 35 years. Opened on January 31, 1974, this family-run business, located at 16630 S. Dixie Highway in Markham, Illinois, has “survived presidents, corporations, competition, recessions, and many depressions,” says co-owner Steve Miller. Therefore, the staying power of this… Read More: Markham Roller Rink Celebrates 35 Years in Business »